Digital enablers at Sulzer ─ smart and connected pumps

Sulzer is using digital technologies such as cloud platforms, digital connectivity and advanced analytic algorithms to create new business opportunities.

As digital sensors are becoming cheaper and more physical devices are connected to the Internet (Internet of Things, IoT), there is an enormous potential to convert data from the devices into actionable business insights. Often, this machine-generated data cannot be analyzed using traditional techniques because it is not standardized in format, the generated data volumes are huge, the data resides in multiple systems, or the data quality is volatile and messy. A different approach is required.

Today, the technology involved is becoming more affordable, and transforming our pumps into smart, connected devices is a viable business proposition. This is particularly attractive in general industry, such as pulp and paper factories, sugar, food, and fertilizer industries, where configured pumps have traditionally not been equipped with such options.

Sulzer is developing a smart sensor that can be attached to process pumps. It will measure parameters such as temperature and vibration of pumps in the field, then transfer this information wirelessly to our data lake. Our customers will then be able to receive information about the asset’s performance, reliability and efficiency.

The idea for such a device arose at Sulzer in Finland and in Switzerland at around the same time. The teams defined the specifications for the sensor by listening to customers and recognizing their needs for cost savings by increasing pump reliability.

In 2018, the sensor will be tested at customer facilities. Afterwards, it will be ready to use in the field. Soon, Sulzer’s goal is to deliver its new process pumps with the integrated sensor so customers can benefit from the entire package, and Sulzer can leverage the data captured from the field to improve our knowledge of the operations of our products.